Apparatus for applying an adhesive layer

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning apparatus, particularly, but not exclusively, to an apparatus including an applicator or an apparatus including a cartridge having an applicator. The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, including a contact cleaning roller, an adhesive roll, and an applicator. The apparatus is suitable for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning apparatus, and includes an applicator positioned and configured to apply at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims the benefit of UK Patent Application No. 2008169.1, entitled "Apparatus for Applying an Adhesive Layer," filed on June 1, 2020, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Field of Disclosure The present invention relates to an apparatus for coating or applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning apparatus, particularly, but not exclusively, to an apparatus including an applicator or cartridge having an applicator. The present invention also relates to an apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, including a contact cleaning roller, an adhesive roll, and an applicator. [Background technology]

[0003] background Contact cleaning is used to clean substrate surfaces, which can then be used in a variety of sophisticated processes, such as in the manufacturing of electronic devices, photovoltaic devices, and flat panel displays. Typically, a cleaning roller made of rubber or elastomer is used to remove contaminant particles from the substrate surface, and then an adhesive roll can be used to remove the contaminant particles or debris from the cleaning roller. This maximizes the efficiency of the cleaning roller in removing contaminant particles from the substrate surface.

[0004] In contact cleaning, the adhesive roll typically comprises a rolled or sheeted length of substrate wrapped around a core, the substrate including an adhesive surface that can be used to remove or collect debris from the surface of the cleaning roller.

[0005] As the adhesive roller removes debris, the outermost lengths of adhesive material lose effectiveness until performance falls below a required threshold, at which point the adhesive material becomes used and must be removed. Removal of the adhesive material can be accomplished by the user cutting away the outer periphery of the used portion of the continuous length of adhesive material, leaving a new portion of the continuous adhesive material for use.

[0006] Alternatively, the adhesive material may be in sheet form, and once the outermost sheet of adhesive material is used, the contaminated sheet may simply be pulled away to reveal a new, uncontaminated sheet of adhesive material.

[0007] A further known alternative is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,629,999, which employs a length of adhesive tape extending between two spindles. The adhesive tape is continuously applied to and then peeled off the surface of the cleaning roller to clean debris from the surface of the cleaning roller. Optionally, the adhesive tape is used to engage an intermediate sheet of tape roll that cleans the cleaning roller. Engagement of the adhesive tape with the intermediate sheet of tape transfers accumulated particles and used sheets from the sheet of tape roll to refresh the sheet of tape.

[0008] One drawback of prior art solutions is that the cleaning process must be paused so the user can remove and discard the used adhesive material or tape. If the adhesive material or tape is continuously engaged with the contact cleaning roller, any problems with the adhesive material or tape that require user correction and intervention will require downtime for the entire contact cleaning system to resolve. In addition, such systems require the user to replace the adhesive tape, which in turn requires system downtime.

[0009] Additionally, systems that use tape to remove particles and sheets from the surface of an intermediate sheet roll can be unreliable when removing used sheets because they only contact a small portion of the surface of the sheet roll.

[0010] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that reduces or eliminates unnecessary downtime in a contact cleaning apparatus. Certain embodiments provide the advantage that the contact cleaning apparatus may require only minimal or no user intervention or involvement. In this manner, the contact cleaning apparatus may be fully automated, particularly when the outer surface of the adhesive roll needs to be restored. A contact cleaning apparatus that does not require user intervention also reduces the possibility of human error, for example, when elements of the apparatus are replaced or modified.

[0011] It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus by which a clean adhesive surface can be quickly and easily restored.It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for restoring the performance of an adhesive roll surface so that the surface is free of debris. [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2006133024 Summary of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll as claimed in the accompanying claims.

[0013] According to the present invention there is provided a cartridge according to the accompanying claims, comprising a housing and an applicator operably mounted within the housing.

[0014] According to the present invention there is provided a cartridge comprising a housing containing both an applicator and an adhesive roll mounted in the housing, according to the appended claims.

[0015] According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface comprising a contact cleaning roller, an adhesive roll and an applicator or cartridge according to the appended claims.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning device, the apparatus comprising an applicator positioned and configured to apply at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the applicator applies the at least one adhesive layer as a film of adhesive material.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the outer surface has a circumference, and the applicator is configured to apply the adhesive layer long enough to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the circumference. In this manner, the outer surface can be restored when the debris collection effectiveness of the adhesive roll falls below a required threshold. Because this restoration is an additive process, restoration is achieved without an operator manually removing the adhesive layer or sheet.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the applicator is configured to apply a sufficient length of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover substantially one circumference. In certain embodiments, the outer surface has an axial length, and the applicator is configured to apply a sufficient length of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the axial length. In certain embodiments, the applicator is configured to apply a sufficient length of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover substantially the axial length.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the applicator is configured to apply a single layer of adhesive sufficient to circumferentially cover the outer surface, thereby efficiently applying the adhesive layer to restore the entire outer surface.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the applicator is constructed and arranged to transfer at least one layer of adhesive to a bonding roll.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the applicator comprises a roll of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface, the roll wound around a core. In certain embodiments, the roll comprises a continuous layer of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface. In certain embodiments, the release surface is formed from a substrate comprising paper or film. Even more preferably, the release surface comprises a release agent. In certain embodiments, the release agent comprises a silicone or polyethylene coating.

[0023] Thus, the adhesive layer is provided in a convenient form that can be easily installed on a contact cleaning device. Furthermore, the release surface and / or adhesive layer can be adapted to ensure compatibility of the adhesive layer with a wide range of contact cleaning devices, including various types of adhesive rolls, exterior surfaces, and debris.

[0024] Furthermore, the tendency of the adhesive layer to separate from the release surface and adhere to the outer surface can be tailored and controlled. In other words, in a contact cleaning system including an applicator according to the first aspect of the present invention, the adhesive layer may have differential adhesion between the adhesive layer and the release surface and between the adhesive layer and the outer surface.

[0025] As the outermost adhesive layer on the exterior surface collects debris, the collected debris alters the exterior surface, causing the exterior surface to become less effective at collecting debris over time. Collection effectiveness decreases with increasing amounts of collected debris until the exterior surface needs to be restored. The change in effectiveness also reflects a change in differential adhesive strength.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0027] According to a further aspect, there is provided a cartridge comprising: a housing and an applicator operably mounted within the housing; Equipped with A cartridge is provided in which the applicator is positionable and configurable to apply at least one layer of adhesive to an outer surface of an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning device.

[0028] In this way, the applicator can be easily replaced when the reserve amount of adhesive layer is consumed.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the cartridge further comprises an adhesive roll operably mounted within the housing, the adhesive roll mounted adjacent to the applicator such that the applicator is operable to selectively apply the at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the adhesive roll is provided as a core having an outer surface, the outer surface including an adhesive layer. Optionally, the adhesive roll may be provided without an adhesive layer.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the housing includes an opening through which a portion of the adhesive roll protrudes.

[0032] According to a further aspect, there is provided an apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, comprising: a cartridge including a housing, wherein both an adhesive roll and an applicator are operably mounted within the housing, the applicator positioned and configured to apply at least one layer of adhesive to an outer surface of the adhesive roll; a contact cleaning roller operatively engageable with the adhesive roll; An apparatus is provided comprising:

[0033] In this manner, the device can be adapted to easily replace a cartridge containing an adhesive roll and applicator when the reserve amount of adhesive layers is consumed or when a threshold number of adhesive layers has been applied to the adhesive roll. The threshold number of adhesive layers can be determined by the dimensions of the device or cartridge. Alternatively, the amount of adhesive roll provided with a cartridge can be adapted to match the capacity of the associated adhesive roll to receive the threshold number of adhesive layers.

[0034] According to a further aspect, there is provided an apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, comprising: a contact cleaning roller adapted to collect debris from the substrate surface; an adhesive roll operatively engageable with the contact cleaning roller; an applicator or a cartridge including a housing to which the applicator is operably attached; Including, An apparatus is provided in which the applicator or the cartridge is adapted such that the applicator selectively applies the at least one adhesive layer to the outer surface of the adhesive roll.

[0035] In this manner, an apparatus can be provided in which the outer surface can be easily restored. In other words, when the debris collection effect of the outer surface of the adhesive roll falls below a threshold, the outer surface can be restored by selectively applying an adhesive layer from the applicator. Thus, the apparatus can operate continuously without downtime, except for a brief restoration operation each time the effect falls below the threshold.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the adhesive roll moves from a first position where it is operatively engageable with the contact cleaning roller to a second position where it is operatively engageable with the adhesive layer. In this manner, the adhesive roll can be quickly restored by simply engaging the adhesive layer so that the used outer surface is covered. Covering the used outer surface with the adhesive layer also covers debris that has collected on the outer surface.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the adhesive roll moves from the first position to the second position when the cleaning effectiveness of the exterior surface falls below a threshold value. The threshold value can be determined or measured by a detector or sensor, such as a photodetector. In this manner, restoration of the exterior surface can be initiated automatically without user intervention. Thus, the contact cleaning device can be automated to operate in multiple cycles of cleaning and restoration.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a member constructed and arranged to urge the adhesive layer against the outer surface of the adhesive roll. In certain embodiments, the member is a backing roller. Thus, the apparatus can actively apply the adhesive layer to overcome, for example, a lack of adhesive grab between the adhesive layer and the outer surface of the adhesive roll.

[0039] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of an applicator of a first aspect of the present invention; FIG.

[0041] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of a second exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0042] [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a side view of a third exemplary embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0043] [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a side view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the applicator of the first aspect of the present invention mounted within a housing, shown in a second position.

[0044] [Figure 5] 10A-10C are side views of a fifth exemplary embodiment of an applicator and adhesive roll of the first aspect of the present invention mounted within a housing, shown in (a) a first position and (b) a second position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

[0046] Detailed Description The use of certain terminology in the following description is for convenience only and is not intended to be limiting. The words "top," "upward," "bottom," and "downward" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made and with respect to the described components when assembled and installed, and their specific meanings will be readily apparent from the context of the description.

[0047] Furthermore, as used in this disclosure, the terms "connected," "fixed," "coupled," and "attached" are intended to include a direct connection between two members, with no other members present between them, and an indirect connection between the members, where one or more other members are present between them. This terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

[0048] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives such as "first," "second," "third," etc., is intended merely to indicate that reference is being made to different instances of similar objects, and is not intended to imply any obligation that the objects so described be in a given order, ranking, or any other manner in time or space.

[0049] 1, there is shown a general apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 100 includes an applicator 120 configured to apply an adhesive layer 122. The applicator 120 is positioned above the adhesive roll 140, as would be found in a contact cleaning device that collects debris 199 from a contact cleaning roller, so that the adhesive layer 122 is applied to the outer surface 142 of the adhesive roll 140. The applicator 120 applies the adhesive layer 122 as the adhesive roll 140 rotates, so that the adhesive layer 122 covers the outer surface 142 and any debris 199 retained thereon.

[0050] Applicator 120 is positioned to extend parallel to the axial direction of adhesive roll 140. Adhesive roll 140 is mounted for rotation in a contact cleaning system, as known in the art, such that adhesive roll 140's outer surface 142 engages a contact cleaning roller (not shown) to collect debris. Debris 199 is collected until the effectiveness of outer surface 142 falls below a required threshold. Applicator 120 is positioned above adhesive roll 140 but remains disengaged from adhesive roll 140 while the debris-collecting effectiveness of outer surface 142 is above the threshold.

[0051] When the debris collection performance of the exterior surface 142 falls below a required threshold, the exterior surface 142 becomes used and must be restored. To restore the surface, the adhesive roll 140 disengages from the contact cleaning roller but continues to rotate. The adhesive roll 140 then operatively engages the applicator 120, which applies an adhesive layer 122 to the exterior surface 142 as the exterior surface 142 passes underneath the applicator 120. The adhesive layer 122 thereby covers both the exterior surface 142 and the previously collected debris 199.

[0052] The newly applied adhesive layer 122 thus provides a restored outer surface 142 of the adhesive roll 140 suitable for collecting debris when the adhesive roll 140 re-engages with the contact cleaning roller, thus allowing cleaning of the contact cleaning roller to resume with minimal downtime.

[0053] The restored exterior surface 142 resumes collecting debris until the collection effect is again below the desired threshold, at which point the exterior surface 142 can be restored again by applying a further adhesive layer as described above.

[0054] Figure 2 shows a second embodiment of apparatus 300. Where features are the same as in the previous embodiment, the reference numerals are the same except that the first digit is a "3." The embodiment shown in Figure 2 includes an applicator 320 positioned above an adhesive roll 340 adapted to engage and collect debris from a contact cleaning roller.

[0055] Applicator 320 includes a distribution roll 321 and a receiving roll 330 that are arranged with their axes parallel to one another. Distribution roll 321 and receiving roll 330 each extend substantially the length of adhesive roll 340 and are positioned slightly above and to either side of adhesive roll 340. Thus, the axes of distribution roll 321 and receiving roll 330 are aligned parallel to the axis of adhesive roll 340.

[0056] The distribution roll 321 includes a core 325 on which is wound a roll of adhesive layer 322. The adhesive layer 322 is supported on a release surface 324. The release surface 324 extends from the distribution roll 321 to the receiving roll 330 and is positioned such that rotation of the receiving roll 330 pulls the release surface 324 off the distribution roll 321 and thereby wraps it around the receiving roll 330.

[0057] When wound around the distribution roll 321, the inner surface of a portion of the adhesive layer 322 contacts a portion of the outer surface of the support release surface, and the outer surface of a portion of the adhesive layer 322 contacts the inner surface of a portion of the release surface belonging to that outer layer.

[0058] The adhesive roll 340 is mounted on the contact cleaning device such that its axis moves between a first position and a second position. In the first position, not shown, the adhesive roll 3 40 is positioned to operatively engage the contact cleaning roller such that the outer surface 342 collects debris from the surface of the contact cleaning roller. The adhesive roll 340 is disengaged from the applicator 320 and is not in contact with the adhesive layer 322.

[0059] 2, the adhesive roll 340 is positioned so that its outer surface 342 is pressed against the adhesive layer 322 supported on the release surface between the distribution roll 321 and the receiving roll 330. The adhesive roll 340 is disengaged from the contact cleaning roller.

[0060] While in the first position, the outer surface 342 of the adhesive roll 340 collects debris from the contact cleaning roller. When the collection effectiveness of the outer surface 342 decreases to a certain threshold, the outer surface 342 becomes used and is ready to be restored.

[0061] To restore the used outer surface 342, the adhesive roll 340 selectively engages the applicator 320 by moving from a first position to a second position. The adhesive roll 340 continues to rotate in the same direction as when it was engaged with the contact cleaning device. The distribution roll 321 and the receiving roll 330 are positioned to orient the release surface 324 so that the adhesive layer 322 is pressed against the adhesive roll 340 when the adhesive roll 340 engages the applicator 320. The adhesive layer 322 is pressed against the adhesive roll 340 at the contact area.

[0062] Within the contact area, the leading edge of adhesive layer 322 contacts used outer surface 342 and adheres to outer surface 342 by adhesive forces. As adhesive roll 340 continues to rotate, adhesive layer 322 is applied to used outer surface 342, covering any debris that has collected on outer surface 342.

[0063] By applying adhesive layer 322 to the outer surface, adhesive layer 322 is transferred from release surface 324 to adhesive roll 340. Then, as receiving roll 330 rotates, release surface 324, which no longer has adhesive layer 322, wraps around receiving roll 330 and moves away from the contact area.

[0064] Both distribution roll 321 and receiving roll 330 extend the entire axial length of bonding roll 340. As a result, adhesive layer 322 covers substantially the entire axial length of bonding roll 340 as it rotates. In this manner, the applicator applies adhesive layer 322 circumferentially to the outer surface.

[0065] Adhesive layer 322 is pressed against adhesive roll 340 for the length of one rotation of adhesive roll 340. Applicator 320 therefore applies adhesive layer 322 long enough to circumferentially cover or encase the entire outer surface 342 and any debris collected on outer surface 342. In this way, a complete, restored outer surface is provided on adhesive roll 340.

[0066] Thus, operation of the contact cleaning device resumes as adhesive roll 340 moves to the first position. As adhesive roll 340 returns, it separates from adhesive layer 322 remaining on release surface 324 by breaking adhesive layer 322. Upon returning to the first position, adhesive roll 340 re-engages with the contact cleaning roller until outer surface 342 of adhesive roll 340 is exhausted and again requires restoration.

[0067] Figure 3 shows a third embodiment of the apparatus 400. Where features are the same as in the previous embodiment, the reference numerals are the same except that the first digit is a "4." The embodiment shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same as the embodiment shown in Figure 2, but further includes a backing roller 460 within the applicator 420.

[0068] The backing roller 460 is disposed above the adhesive roll 440 and extends substantially the entire length of the adhesive roll 440. The backing roller 460 is positioned so that when the adhesive roll 440 moves to its second position and engages the applicator 420, the adhesive layer 422 and the release surface 424 are compressed between the outer surface 442 of the adhesive roll 440 and the backing roller 460.

[0069] The axis of the backing roller 460 is biased toward the outer surface 442 so that the backing roller 460 applies pressure to the contact zone. As a result, as the adhesive layer 422 is applied to the outer surface 442, the backing roller 460 urges the adhesive layer 422 against the outer surface 442. This additional urging force provided by the backing roller 460 assists in transferring the adhesive layer 422 from the release surface 424 to the outer surface 442.

[0070] In the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, each bonding roll is described as moving between a first position and a second position. However, it should be noted that the first and second positions refer to the relative positions of the bonding roll and its respective applicator. Thus, while these embodiments are described as the bonding roll moving relative to the applicator, the embodiments equally encompass alternative arrangements in which the applicator moves relative to the bonding roll. Thus, each first position is an arrangement in which the applicator is spaced apart and disengaged from the bonding roll. Each second position is an arrangement in which the applicator moves toward and engages the bonding roll so that each adhesive layer can be pressed against the respective outer surface.

[0071] In these alternative arrangements, as the applicator moves into engagement with the adhesive roll, the adhesive roll can either simultaneously disengage from the contact cleaning roller or remain engaged. If the adhesive roll remains engaged, it can include collecting debris while the adhesive layer is being applied to the outer surface of the adhesive roll.

[0072] Figure 4 shows a fourth embodiment of apparatus 700. Where features are the same as in the previous embodiment, the reference numerals are the same except that the first digit is "7." The embodiment shown in Figure 4 is similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 2 in that the applicator 720 includes a distribution roll 721 with an adhesive layer 722 supported on a release surface 724 wound around a core 725. The release surface 724 extends from the distribution roll 721 to a receiving roll 730 and is positioned so that rotation of the receiving roll 730 pulls the release surface 724 off the distribution roll 721 and thereby wraps it around the receiving roll 730.

[0073] The distribution roll 721 and receiving roll 730 are mounted in a housing of a cartridge 770. The cartridge 770 mounts the distribution roll 721 and receiving roll 730 above an adhesive roll 740 adapted to engage a contact cleaning roller to collect debris. 30 is attached to the contact cleaning device so that the

[0074] The distribution roll 721 and receiving roll 730 are positioned above the adhesive roll 740 and are oriented to extend axially in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the adhesive roll 740. The cartridge 770, and therefore both the distribution roll 721 and receiving roll 730, extend across the entire width of the adhesive roll 740.

[0075] The adhesive roll 740 is adapted to move between a first position and a second position, similar to the previous embodiment. In the first position (not shown), the adhesive roll 740 is positioned to operatively engage the contact cleaning roller such that its outer surface 742 collects debris from the contact cleaning roller. The adhesive roll 740 is disengaged from the applicator 720 and therefore is not in contact with the adhesive layer 722.

[0076] While in the first position, the outer surface 742 of the adhesive roller 740 collects debris from the contact cleaning roller until its collection effectiveness decreases to a certain threshold, at which point the outer surface 742 becomes used and ready to be restored.

[0077] To restore the outer surface 742, the adhesive roll 740 moves to the second position shown in Figure 4. The cartridge 770, and thus the distribution roll 721 and receiving roll 721, are positioned to orient the release surface 724 so that the adhesive layer 722 supported on the release surface 724 faces the adhesive roll 740. Thus, when the adhesive roll 740 moves to the second position and engages the applicator 720, the adhesive layer 722 supported on the release surface 724 is pressed against the adhesive roll 740. In this manner, the adhesive layer 722 is pressed against the outer surface 742 at the contact area.

[0078] Within the contact area, the leading edge of adhesive layer 722 contacts used outer surface 742 and adheres to outer surface 742 by adhesive forces. As adhesive roll 740 continues to rotate, adhesive layer 722 is applied to used outer surface 742, covering any debris that has collected on outer surface 742.

[0079] By applying adhesive layer 722 to the outer surface, adhesive layer 722 is transferred from the release surface to adhesive layer 722. Receiving roll 721 wraps release surface 724, from which adhesive layer 722 has disappeared, around receiving roll 721 so that it is away from the contact area.

[0080] Both the distribution roll 721 and the receiving roll 721 extend over the entire axial length of the adhesive roll 740, so that the adhesive layer 722 is pressed against substantially the entire axial length of the outer surface 742 as the outer surface 742 rotates. In this manner, the applicator 720 applies the adhesive layer 722 to cover the outer surface 742 circumferentially.

[0081] The adhesive layer 722 is pressed against the bonding roll 740 for the duration of one rotation of the bonding roll 740. Thus, the applicator 720 applies a length of adhesive layer 722 sufficient to circumferentially cover or encase the entire outer surface 742 and any debris that has collected on the outer surface 742. This provides a fully restored outer surface 742 on the adhesive layer 722. Cleaning of the contact cleaning roller can resume until the outer surface of the bonding roll 740 is exhausted and again requires restoration.

[0082] When the reserve amount of adhesive layer 722 in the applicator 720 is consumed, a replacement supply of adhesive layer can be provided by simply replacing the first cartridge 770 with a new one. A new dispensing roll is attached to the cartridge so that the cartridge is operational as soon as it is attached to the contact cleaning device. Thus, a consumed applicator is easily replaced.

[0083] Figure 5 shows a fifth embodiment of the device 800. Where features are the same as in the previous embodiment, the reference numerals are the same except that the first digit is "8". 5 4, in which applicator 820 includes a distribution roll 821 and a receiving roll 830 mounted to a housing of cartridge 870. Additionally, adhesive roll 840 is also mounted to the housing and adapted to selectively engage applicator 820. When adhesive roll 840 is selectively engaged with applicator 820, applicator 820 applies adhesive layer 822 to the outer surface of adhesive roll 840.

[0084] 4, distribution roll 821 includes adhesive layer 822 supported on release surface 824, which is wound around core 825 and receiving roll 830. Distribution roll 821 and receiving roll 830 are arranged so that rotation of receiving roll 830 pulls and unwinds release surface 824 from distribution roll 821, thereby wrapping release surface 824 around receiving roll 830. Adhesive layer 822 is oriented on release surface 824 so that adhesive layer 822 faces adhesive roll 840.

[0085] Bonding roll 840 is mounted in the housing such that its axis moves between a first position and a second position. As shown in FIG. 5 a), in the first position, bonding roll 840 is positioned to operatively engage contact cleaning roller 880 such that outer surface 842 of bonding roll 840 collects debris from contact cleaning roller 880. Bonding roll 840 is disengaged from applicator 820 and therefore is not in contact with adhesive layer 822.

[0086] 5b), the adhesive roll 840 is positioned so that its outer surface 842 is pressed against the adhesive layer 822 provided on the release surface 824 extending between the distribution roll 821 and the receiving roll 830. The adhesive roll 840 is disengaged from the contact cleaning roller 880.

[0087] When cartridge 870 is installed in the contact cleaning device, adhesive roll 840 is mounted on cartridge 870 in its first position such that outer surface 842 collects debris from contact cleaning roller 880. The first position is maintained as long as the collection effectiveness of outer surface 842 is above a threshold value.

[0088] When the collection effectiveness falls below a threshold, outer surface 842 is used and requires restoration. As a result, adhesive roll 840 moves to its second position. Applicator 820 then engages adhesive roll 840, so that adhesive layer 822 can be applied to outer surface 842 of adhesive roll 840.

[0089] Rotation of adhesive roll 840 causes applicator 820 to provide adhesive layer 822 long enough to circumferentially cover used exterior surface 842. Adhesive layer 822 also covers debris collected on the used surface to form new exterior surface 842.

[0090] 4, cartridge 800 is easily removable from the contact cleaning device, so replacement of spent adhesive layer 822 and adhesive roll 840 can be quickly and easily accomplished.

[0091] In the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, changing the position of the adhesive rolls from their respective first positions to their respective second positions is provided by relative movement of the adhesive roll shafts within the cartridge.

[0092] As shown in Figures 5a and 5b, one way to accomplish this is for the housing to remain stationary while the adhesive roll 840 disengages and moves away from the contact cleaning roller. In this way, the relative motion is provided by the movement of the adhesive roll 840 toward and away from the applicator 820. This motion can be replicated in the embodiment of Figure 4.

[0093] In embodiments not shown, the change in position may alternatively be accomplished while each adhesive roll remains engaged with its respective contact cleaning roller. In these alternatives, the axis of the adhesive roll remains in a fixed position while the cartridge, including the housing and applicator, moves toward the contact cleaning roller. In this manner, relative motion is provided by movement of the applicator toward and away from the adhesive roll. Thus, movement of the applicator toward the adhesive roll presses its outer surface against the adhesive layer.

[0094] In the second position, a layer of adhesive circumferentially covers the used outer surface and collected debris, similar to the method described above. With a new outer surface formed, the adhesive roll is restored and the applicator can return to the first position. In this way, the alternate position change allows the outer surface to be restored while maintaining uninterrupted collection of debris from the contact cleaning roller.

[0095] Further configurations of the above-described examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art, as will other examples and alternatives within the scope of the present invention.

[0096] Although this disclosure has described an example with a single adhesive roll engaging an individual contact cleaning roller, the apparatus of the present invention can be readily configured in other configurations, such as with multiple adhesive rolls and / or multiple contact cleaning rollers.

[0097] In certain instances, the adhesive roll disengages from the contact cleaning roller before engaging with the applicator so that the applicator can apply the adhesive layer. However, depending on the nature of the adhesive layer, it may not be necessary for the adhesive roll to disengage from the contact cleaning roller. Thus, when the exterior surface is decommissioned, the applicator can simply engage the adhesive roll to apply the adhesive layer. In this case, restoring the exterior surface does not require interrupting the operative engagement of the adhesive layer with the contact cleaning roller, as long as the adhesive layer is applied in a form that is readily usable to collect debris.

[0098] In certain instances, a backing roller is used. Other alternatives may be used to urge the adhesive layer against the outer surface, such as a bar, doctor blade, tension roller, etc. Optionally, the adhesive roll itself may be urged to press the adhesive layer against the bar, tension roller, or blade.

[0099] In certain examples, the applicator is described as providing coverage to a portion of an exterior surface. It will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that any of the examples described in this disclosure may be adapted to provide coverage to a portion of their respective exterior surface in a similar manner.

[0100] Although the adhesive layer in the disclosed embodiment is described as being applied in a single layer to restore the exterior surface, multiple layers may be applied if specifically desired. [Configuration 1] 1. An apparatus for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning device, the apparatus comprising: an applicator positioned and configured to apply at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll. [Configuration 2] 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the applicator applies the at least one adhesive layer as a film of adhesive material. [Configuration 3] 3. The apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer surface has a circumference and the applicator is configured to apply a length of the adhesive layer sufficient to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the circumference. [Configuration 4] 4. The apparatus of configuration 3, wherein the applicator is configured to apply a length of the adhesive sufficient to circumferentially cover substantially one circumference. [Configuration 5] 5. The apparatus of any one of configurations 3-4, wherein the outer surface has an axial length, and the applicator is configured to apply sufficient of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the axial length. [Configuration 6] 6. The apparatus of configuration 5, wherein the applicator is configured to apply enough of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover substantially the axial length. [Configuration 7] 3. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the applicator is configured to apply a length of adhesive sufficient to circumferentially cover the outer surface in a single adhesive layer. [Configuration 8] 8. The apparatus of any one of configurations 1-7, wherein the applicator is constructed and arranged to transfer the at least one adhesive layer to the adhesive roll. [Configuration 9] 9. The apparatus of any one of configurations 1-8, wherein the applicator comprises a roll of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface, the roll being wound around a core. [Configuration 10] 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the roll comprises a continuous layer of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface. [Configuration 11] 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the release surface is formed from a substrate comprising paper or film. [Configuration 12] 13. The apparatus of any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the release surface comprises a release agent. [Configuration 13] 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the release agent comprises a silicone or polyethylene coating. [Configuration 14] 14. The device of any one of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the adhesive layer comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive. [Configuration 15] 16. A cartridge comprising a housing and an applicator of any one of aspects 1-15 operably mounted within the housing. [Configuration 16] 17. The cartridge of claim 16, further comprising an adhesive roll operably mounted within the housing, the adhesive roll mounted adjacent to the applicator such that the applicator is operable to selectively apply the at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll. [Configuration 17] 18. The cartridge of claim 17, wherein the housing includes an opening through which a portion of the adhesive roll protrudes. [Configuration 18] 19. An apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, comprising: the cartridge of any one of aspects 16 to 18; and a contact cleaning roller operably engageable with the adhesive roll. [Configuration 19] 1. An apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, comprising: a contact cleaning roller adapted to collect debris from the substrate surface; an adhesive roll operatively engageable with said contact cleaning roller; an applicator according to any one of Configurations 1 to 16 or a cartridge according to any one of Configurations 15 to 17; Equipped with The applicator or cartridge is adapted such that the applicator selectively applies the at least one adhesive layer to the outer surface of the adhesive roll. [Configuration 20] 20. The apparatus of any one of configurations 1-14, 18, and 19, further comprising a member constructed and arranged to urge the adhesive layer against the outer surface of the adhesive roll. [Configuration 21] 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the member is a backing roller.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus for applying an adhesive layer to an adhesive roll in a contact cleaning device, the apparatus comprising: an applicator positioned and configured to apply at least one adhesive layer to an outer surface of the adhesive roll; the outer surface has a circumference, and the applicator is configured to apply a length of the adhesive layer sufficient to circumferentially cover the entire circumference in a single adhesive layer. Device.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the applicator applies the at least one adhesive layer as a film of adhesive material.

3. 3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer surface has an axial length, and the applicator is configured to apply enough of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the axial length.

4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the applicator is configured to apply enough of the adhesive layer to circumferentially cover the entire axial length.

5. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the applicator is constructed and arranged to transfer the at least one adhesive layer to the adhesive roll.

6. 6. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the applicator comprises a roll of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface, the roll being wound around a core.

7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the roll comprises a continuous layer of adhesive layer releasably supported on a release surface.

8. The device of claim 7 , wherein the release surface is formed from a substrate comprising paper or film.

9. 9. The device of claim 7 or 8, wherein the release surface comprises a release agent.

10. The device of claim 9 , wherein the release agent comprises a silicone or polyethylene coating.

11. The device of any preceding claim, wherein the adhesive layer comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive.

12. A cartridge comprising a housing and an applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 11 operably mounted within the housing.

13. 13. The cartridge of claim 12, further comprising an adhesive roll operably mounted within the housing, the adhesive roll mounted adjacent the applicator such that the applicator is operable to selectively apply the at least one layer of adhesive to an outer surface of the adhesive roll.

14. The cartridge of claim 13 , wherein the housing includes an opening through which a portion of the adhesive roll protrudes.

15. 15. An apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface comprising the cartridge of claim 13 or 14 and a contact cleaning roller operatively engageable with the adhesive roll.

16. 1. An apparatus for contact cleaning a substrate surface, comprising: a contact cleaning roller adapted to collect debris from the substrate surface; an adhesive roll operatively engageable with said contact cleaning roller; An applicator according to any one of claims 1 to 11 or a cartridge according to any one of claims 12 to 14; Equipped with The applicator or cartridge is adapted such that the applicator selectively applies the at least one adhesive layer to the outer surface of the adhesive roll.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 15 or 16, further comprising a member constructed and arranged to urge the adhesive layer against the outer surface of the adhesive roll.

18. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the member is a backing roller.

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